Fine Art/Francisco Ribera Oil on Canvas Painting

HI I've recently acquired this painting.
It is signed in capital letters 'FRANCISCO RIBERA CMLXVIII'
The painting is approx.12" x 17"
It is oil on canvas (mounted on a wood frame)
I live in Kingston, Ontario, Canada and got this piece at our local Sharing Center from a 'free box'. It looked interesting so I picked it up
Any help in identifying the title of this painting as well as the value would be great.
Thanks in Advance

AnswerCarrie,
Here's a quick answer: I don't know a lot about this artist. But here is where you can start. Try searching for "Francisco Ribera Gomez". He is a listed Spanish artist who lived 1907-1990. Specialized in female figure painting. You'll quickly find many examples of his work. As for the Roman Numerals by his signature, I suspect you are missing an "M" at the front which would date this artwork to MCMLXVIII or 1968, if I have my Roman numerals correct.

If this is not a copy or seriograph, but his orginal work, I would tell you his very best (and in top notch condition) works have brought in the environs of $1,000 at public auctions in Europe. Copy or not, you have an interesting picture, I agree!

Expertise

American Fine Art Paintings. Oils, Watercolors, Sketches. Nineteenth and early Twentieth Century. Hudson River School, Pennsylvania Academy, Cape Ann artists, Ash Can, Woodstock, Florida Indian River, American Impressionists, etc. I can provide some background about artists and perhaps a rough appraisal or guidance towards obtaining a value. I am acquainted with many of the best American art dealers and auction houses. Original works only, I do not follow the print market. I do NOT field questions about prints.

Important to knowI am not expert in European art. I encourage you to send questions on European artists to other experts on this service. NO PRINTS:I encourage you to seek help on prints elsewhere. Two sites come to mind: www.artoftheprint.com and www.philaprintshop.com

Experience

I have been collecting original American Fine Art for over 20 years. I have curated art shows, and I have served as a dealer, providing appraisals and guidance for the last 8 years.

Education/CredentialsBachelor of Arts
Master of Business Administration